Four typical designs for connecting generator set(s) to the low voltage system
Many different system designs are possible, but for highest reliability, systems are typically configured so that generator set(s) are connected at low voltage, with the minimum number of transformers and circuit breakers between the generator set and load to be… Read more
Feb 08, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Four design criteria for human machine interface (HMI) in a substation
With the introduction of IEDs (Intelligent Electronic Devices), the traditional switchboard interface is being replaced by Human Machine Interface (HMI) software loaded on computer hardware. The designer has a wide choice of HMI vendors that support a wide range of… Read more
Jan 11, 2017 | By Edvard Csanyi
Fundamental overcurrent, distance and differential protection principles
The aim of this technical article is to cover the most important principles of four fundamental relay protections: overcurrent, directional overcurrent, distance and differential for transmission lines, power transformers and busbars. Contents: Principle of overcurrent protection Principle of directional overcurrent protection… Read more
Dec 26, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
A case study of 110/10 kV substation with centralized protection, automation and control system
Centralized substation protection and control has been attempted in the past based on the available technology. This evolution is now at the intersection of sensing, protection and communication technologies, providing the unique opportunity to develop a more reliable and maintainable… Read more
Dec 21, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
The principles of differential protection you MUST understand
Although nowadays differential protection is achieved numerically, in order to understand the principles of differential protection it is useful to analyze the ubiquitous electromechanical relay. Figure 1 shows a simple differential protection scheme, also known as a Merz-Price scheme. In this… Read more
Dec 09, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Gas insulated substation (GIS) versus Air insulated substation (AIS)
The metal-enclosed gas insulated switchgear> inherently follows the criteria for new substation design and offers a higher reliability and flexibility than other solutions. Due to the gas enclosed design, GIS is the most suitable solution for indoor and underground substations…. Read more
Dec 02, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Do you know what an arc flash is? If not, keep reading, it’s important.
An Arc Flash is an electrical explosion resulting from a low impedance connection to ground or another voltage phase in an electrical system. High temperatures cause rapid heating of surrounding air and extreme pressures, resulting in an arc blast. The… Read more
Nov 09, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Five key factors to the correct cable selection and application
It is essential to know cable construction, characteristics, and ratings to understand problems related to cable systems. However, to correctly select a cable system and assure its satisfactory operation, additional knowledge is required. This knowledge may consist of service conditions,… Read more
Oct 31, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Paralleling and ferroresonance as special problems with transformers
Occasionally, crews must install distribution transformers, either at a changeover or for extra capacity. If a larger bank is being installed to replace an existing unit, paralleling transformers during the changeover eliminates the customer interruption. In order to parallel transformer… Read more
Oct 12, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Problems with audible substation noise and what you can do about it
Audible substation noise, particularly continuously radiated discrete tones (e.g., from power transformers), is the type of noise that the community may find unacceptable. Community guidelines to ensure that acceptable substation noise levels are maintained can take the form of governmental… Read more
Oct 03, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
7 typical layout designs of 11kV indoor distribution substation
The following layout designs of indoor distribution substation are typical only and should not be used as construction drawings as they are presented as an example. Some designs achieve minimum EMF emission by installing the low voltage cables and switchboard… Read more
Sep 26, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
8 steps to follow in power substation design and engineering
Building a new substation or retrofitting the old one is a complex process full of design and engineering tasks to be worked on. The main steps in substation design and engineering are as follows: Selection of a substation switching system:… Read more
Sep 21, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Should you choose fixed or withdrawable medium voltage switchgear?
How to make the right choice between fixed or withdrawable medium voltage switchgear when selecting a new equipment for power substation? The following evaluation procedure should be conducted: Find out how important the additional aspects are. Weigh up the financial… Read more
Aug 22, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
What happens when a transformer fire occurs in a substation
If a fire occurs as a result of a failure in a transformer, then the transformer is nearly always a total write off. However, the total cost of a transformer fire is typically in the order of 2-3 times the… Read more
Aug 12, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
Five transformer constructions you’re most likely to see inside buildings
There are several different types of transformer constructions you can see installed in substations inside commercial and other buildings. This article is generally applicable only to transformers of the liquid filled, ventilated dry, or gas filled dry types. Liquid insulated and gas… Read more
Aug 01, 2016 | By Edvard Csanyi
